Betty Jean Sledge, 89, passed peacefully from this life January 26, 2021, at De Leon Nursing and Rehab. She was born March 8, 1931, in Fisher County, Texas to Wilburn Lee Henson and Bessie McKinsey Hessen. Jean married her loving husband, Vaden Earl Sledge, June 23, 1950.

Betty was the youngest of twelve children and lived in many different areas of Texas as her father bought and sold land. They eventually settled in Comanche where Jean would graduate from high school. After her marriage to Vaden, they settled in De Leon and raised their family here. She was a dedicated homemaker for her family. She and Vaden were members of St. Joe Baptist Church for over fifty years and later in life Jean attended Double N Cowboy Church in Dublin. Betty was a wonderful cook and taught many family members how to make her loved recipes. She was also a talented seamstress and skilled at almost any clothing handiwork. Betty was a selfless wife and mother, caring sister, doting grandmother and dear friend to many. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her.

She is survived by her children, A.W. Sledge (Lisa) and Kathy Royall (Eric); grandchildren, Casey (Meagan) Sledge, Ethan Royall (Carsey), Emilie Royall, and Cristy Sledge; sisters, Sue Richardson and Nita Johnson; numerous nieces, nephews, and other extended family. Betty was preceded in death by her husband, Vaden Earl Sledge; son, James Sledge; infant daughter, Sherry Beth Sledge; parents, Wilburn and Bessie Henson; siblings, Stella, J.N., Alma, Mozelle, Beaulah, Thelma, Ed, Oscar and Oliver.

Graveside funeral services celebrating Jean's life were held Friday, January 29, 2021, in De Leon Cemetery with Travis Dodson officiating. If desired, memorial contributions may be made the Llano Community Center at PO Box 536, Llano, Texas 78643 or to Alpha Omega Hospice, in memory of Jean.

*Due to the current Comanche County COVID-19 regulations on group gatherings, we kindly ask that any friends planning to attend Jean's graveside service respectfully stand at least 20 feet from the tent. The tent seating will be reserved for immediate family only. We are saddened that we cannot currently allow friends to pay their respects to the Sledge family with a traditional visitation and ceremony. The family appreciates your understanding of the graveside safety regulations and is thankful for your continued prayers and kind thoughts during this difficult time. Masks are required in large gatherings.